How can I change the color of only part of a photo using free software?
Asked 7/1/2018
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2 answers
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I want to recolor specific objects in a photo, such as a flower pot and some leaves, without affecting the rest of the image. I'm currently using Paint.NET, but I'm open to other free editors if they make this easier. What editing method should I use to change the color of just selected areas?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
8y ago
2 Answers
1
There are tutorials on YouTube about changing colors in photos. Most demonstrate the techniques with Photoshop, but most image editors that support layers can be used. Generally, the methods involve creating new layers and layer masks, along with:
Changing the blending mode to color, overlay, or soft light.
Changing the hue.
Here are my results using GIMP. Adjusted levels first. Then changed hue for the blue pot, and used overlay blending for the green pot.
Originally by user75526. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user75526
8y ago
0
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Use an editor that supports layers and masks, such as GIMP or Paint.NET. The usual approach is:
- Select the object you want to change.
- Put the adjustment on a separate layer.
- Use a layer mask so only that area is affected.
- Change the layer blend mode to Color, Overlay, or Soft Light, depending on the look you want.
- Adjust Hue to shift the object to the new color.
You may also want to correct Levels first so the tones look clean before recoloring.
In practice, one object may look best with a hue change, while another may look more natural with an overlay-style blend. There are many tutorials for this workflow online; even if they use Photoshop, the same basic method applies in most free editors with layers and masks.
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